New School Jazz from Sydney's COAST

Sydney experimental jazz troupe COAST are about to release their self-titled debut album. Described as "smooth but heavy", "delicate but rapid", the seemingly contrasting images make sense upon listening to the six tracks of the group's fresh and inspired record.

Opening track "Blackline" sets the scene with strong instrumental showmanship and those groovy rhythmic jazz feels. In true jazz group style, the cooperative  interplay between the different musicians is audible and would no doubt be a joy to watch unfold live (see below for Sydney tour details). COAST surely belongs on the late night stages of Sydney's coolest jazz clubs.

“The relentless grind of modern life on the precipice is reflected in this music,” says composer Derricott of the album. The local gents who comprise the group reportedly draw influence from Sydney's coastline, "the thin line between bobbing our heads up and down above the water and the unrelenting energy of the ocean that surrounds". Hence the name, we suppose.

It isn't necessarily the first imagery to spring spontaneously to mind but it becomes easy to picture the connection when you settle in to the mood of the album. Particularly the opening melodies of the second track, "Tide".

COAST is the modern Sydney jazz fan all over. It's classic easy listening jazz, with the effortless flow and artful syncopation we expect. It's familiar beats with new tunes and those classy feel good jazz vibes. I love it.

COAST is Peter Koopman, Shannon Stitt, Michael Avgenicos and Paul Derricott.

Their self-titled debut releases on 20 March, 2018, presented by Art As Catharsis. First single, Blackline, is out now - check it out here.

Catch them in Sydney for their album launch gig at 107 Projects Redfern on April 12th.